This is an original 1948 U.S. half sheet poster for Orson Welles’ Macbeth, released by Republic Pictures. It measures 22 by 28 inches and is in very good condition. The National Screen Service number 48/1382 is handwritten in the lower right corner, with an “A.” above it, which marks this as the Style A design. Posteritati, a leading vintage poster dealer, describes the Style A half sheet as rare.
Welles shot Macbeth in just 23 days on Republic’s stock sets, as a Mercury Production. He produced, directed, adapted the play, and starred as Macbeth. Jeanette Nolan made her film debut as Lady Macbeth, alongside Dan O’Herlihy, Roddy McDowall, Edgar Barrier, and Alan Napier. Jacques Ibert wrote the score, and Richard Wilson was associate producer. The film was cut and re-dubbed for its general release, and it has since been recognized as one of Welles’ most daring films and one of the essential Shakespeare adaptations on screen.
The design is one of the most striking of the period. At its center is a large portrait of Welles as Macbeth, drawn in a fine engraved, line-cut style against a black panel. Lady Macbeth stands to the left raising a dagger, and around her are the massed army with Celtic-cross shields, the sword duel, the three witches on their crag with forked staffs, Macbeth brooding at the banquet table, and the procession of spears. The scene is printed in black over a warm cream-gold tone. The tagline across the top reads “A Notable Motion Picture Achievement!” and the billing names Charles K. Feldman as presenter.
The poster is in very good condition for its age. The image is clean and bright, with strong blacks and good tone. There is light handling wear consistent with age, including minor edge wear and a few light creases and wrinkles near the lower edge. There are no significant tears, losses, or restoration. Please see all photos, as they are part of the description.
It will be packed carefully, rolled in a sturdy tube, and ships within 3 business days.
